A key underpass below Reading Station has reopened today - after a six-figure refurbishment that means cyclists can now safely use to the tunnel. 

The reopening comes just in time for Reading Festival, with more than 80,000 expected to attend. 

The underpass - which allows people to walk under the train station without navigating ticket barriers - has been closed for more than 14-week, prompting concerns that the works could overrun and see the crucial route through the station closed during the festival. 

But the council has confirmed that the throughfare will welcome back pedestrians tomorrow. 

The £400,000 refurbishment means that cyclists should now be able to safely use the route for the first time.  

 A public consultation last year showed that 73% of respondents were in favour of removing the historic cycle ban through the subway, and from tomorrow cyclists will be able to use the underpass legally.

John Ennis, Lead Councillor for Climate Strategy and Transport, said: “The station underpass may cover a relatively short distance but it will make a big difference to cyclists travelling between Christchurch Bridge and the Caversham side of the station, and the town centre.

“This is part of the Council’s aim to link up cycle paths wherever possible to create a comprehensive cycle network across the borough and beyond.

"Making cycling and walking around Reading easier, safer and more attractive is vital to encourage more people to choose active travel, and in turn reduce carbon emissions and improve the health and wellbeing of residents”.

Other improvements include the removal of low-handing ceiling tiles that were regularly vandalised, repairs to surfaces, new signs, and extensive cleaning.

Karen Rowland, Reading Borough Council’s Lead Councillor for Environmental Services and Community Safety, said: "I’m pleased we’ve been able to deliver this important and extensive project on budget and on schedule, in time for this week’s Reading Festival.

“Thank you to all residents for their patience whilst we made these improvements.  I do hope you’ll enjoy the difference next time you use the subway and agree that the inconvenience was worth the wait in the end."

Providing a comment, councillor Dave McElroy (Green, Redlands), an opposition councillor, said: “I rode through it as the workmen were taking down the barriers and it was a huge relief to not have to cycle the long way round.

“I know Green Councillors have been calling for this to be opened up to cycling for a long time and we were glad to see the council and members from a range of parties agree it needed to be done.

“I don’t think anyone would say ‘job’s a good ‘un’ with regard to cycling infrastructure in Reading, but at least this one little bit’s sorted.”